Twenty five years ago. Annual read since then, in the fall of each year, for LOTR. The Hobbit is by the bedside and is always at hand to randomly open and enjoy....the ultimate in soul-comfort reading. ADDED: Though lately I don't read the end anymore...
Have now shifted to reading Letters quite a lot, but I still love TH.

Favorite Tolkien character:

About time I answer this...
One favorite is Haleth. Bravery, integrity, force of will. She gave so much to her people, and kept none for herself.
Another would be Gandalf...no words needed here.
And dear Bilbo.
I also have to add Earendil: I think his creation, story and in part his spirit is at the heart of the Middle-earth universe.